A milestone achievement was reached as Aly Coyle from County Down became the 100th person from Northern Ireland to selflessly donate a kidney to a stranger. Aly’s act of kindness came to fruition when she helped a six-year-old boy from England by donating her kidney, allowing him to undergo a life-saving transplant earlier this year in January. The significance of this achievement was celebrated at a special reception held at Stormont, where Aly had the opportunity to meet Anne Page, the very first person in Northern Ireland to donate a kidney to a stranger. Reflecting on her decision, Aly expressed, “It makes me feel I have done something really worthwhile and I have helped someone for a long time to come.”
Initially, donating a kidney to a stranger was illegal in the UK, with the law only changing shortly before 2011. Aly shared that her motivation to donate her kidney stemmed from a close friend who is currently undergoing dialysis and is still waiting for a donor match. Despite initially seeking to be a match for her friend and not succeeding, Aly decided to proceed and donate to someone in need. She described the entire process as straightforward and praised the exceptional care provided by the medical team. Just four weeks post-donation, Aly disclosed that she was back to 95% fitness and even managed to climb Cavehill over the past weekend.
At the reception at Stormont, Anne Page, an advocate for kidney donation, expressed how she has never looked back since donating her kidney to a man from London. Witnessing the impact of her contribution, especially after learning about the recipient’s lengthy struggle with dialysis, encapsulates the heartwarming essence of kidney donation. Aly, also reflecting on her experience, mentioned having a nephew the same age as the boy who received her kidney, emphasizing the profound joy felt in knowing she has positively impacted someone’s life. Additionally, she humorously stated, “When I am 60 years old, my kidney will be going to university with him.”
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt commended the altruistic nature of individuals like Anne and Aly, declaring it a pleasure to meet such selfless individuals who embody the essence of humanity. Consultant Aisling Courtney, who oversees the living donation transplant programme, highlighted the positive impact of individuals like Anne and Aly, remarking on the ease and effectiveness of the donation process. Reflecting on the impact in Northern Ireland, Aisling mentioned the collective altruism present in the community and emphasized the importance of making the donation process as seamless as possible for those willing to contribute
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